6 People Responsible For The Rise Of U.S. Soccer

U.S. Soccer

The United States have been in blistering form on the international stage of soccer. Winning their last three WC qualifiers convincingly, the U.S. sit comfortably in pole position with 13 points. Individual talent did not bring them this successful run — teamwork did.

Coach Jurgen Klinsmann has finally been able to instill the German mentality into the minds of the players. Some may think that is a bad thing as the U.S. should play their own style, but the truth is that the style here is not good enough on the world stage. The German way brings discipline on both ends of the field and a "never give up" attitude.

A good example is Bayern Munich, who just won it all this past season. Whether it be nearly perfect on defense or attacking with patience and without fear, Munich have impressed not only their country, but the entire world who has seen them play. They play without fear on the field at all times, which makes them a prominent side that is extremely difficult to defeat. This is a good model to follow.

With players on the U.S. roster playing in an MLS league that is growing by the season and others playing Europe, the team is growing into a world power as each game passes. Some veterans are slowly being pushed out of the picture as younger guys are getting a chance. The goal is for these new guys to fit into the system and learn how to play the game in the best ways possible. The idea is to adapt to more than one style so that when a tough opponent steps onto the same field, the U.S. will not be overtaken.

For now, let's break down the five six players who have been a huge part of the side's recent success and coach Klinsmann, who has masterminded the performances.

Jurgen Klinsmann

Coach K had a slow start to his job as head of the U.S. side two years ago, but now his brilliance is being portrayed by the players on the field. Klinsmann can be acclaimed for the recent results earned by the boys in the red, white and blue. Now that the players are finally familiar with his style, the good results should only keep rolling in unless bad luck and mistakes unlikely occur.

Brad Evans

The Seattle wing back has been brought in to replace the fatigued Steve Cherundulo and has done a remarkable job. In fact, his goal against Jamaica was the 2-1 winner in added time. As a defender, it came as a shock that he was the one who scored.

He also locked down his man on the defensive end, disallowing the player to cross the ball or shoot at will. Evans has earned the right to be a lock in the starting 11 in the upcoming matches.

Omar Gonzalez

Forming a formidable partnership at center back with Matt Bessler, Gonzalez has shown that his experience as a multi-time MLS champion has paid off. He is strong, quick and can clear the ball with his head and feet when need be. Locking down strikers is not an issue at all.

After beating his long-time knee injury, he has come back stronger and better than ever. This is nothing but great news for the U.S. national side.

Michael Bradley

As the he main central defensive midfielder, Bradley has developed into one of the best in U.S. history in this position. He holds down the fort in that respective part of the field, stops opposing teams from breaking away into his defensive third, clears the danger and most importantly, he sets up his teammates or even scores when he has the chance to do so. He has future captain written all over him once Tim Howard hangs up his gloves.

Fabian Johnson

After arriving to the international stage, Johnson has enjoyed recent success at both the club and U.S. level. He assisted both of the goals in the 2-0 home win against Panama. His pace, strength, vision and knack for scoring have made him a dangerous player on the offensive end. We can expect him to start many more games for the U.S..

Jozy Altidore

The man had not scored a goal from open play in roughly 1.5 years until his volley against Germany in a friendly found the back of the new. He has since scored three goals in three WC qualifiers against Jamaica, Panama and Honduras. He scored four goals in four straight international games for his country. He was finally able to carry over his club success for the U.S.. With him scoring at this pace, he will continue to help bring good results.